Synopsis: ZERO YEAR is over, and the events of BATMAN: ETERNAL have put Gotham City in a tailspin, but Batman is focused on finding a killer who has haunted his hometown in secret for years. This special issue features art by Matteo Scalera (DEADPOOL, Black Science) and sets the stage for the next major Batman story in the fall.
It’s been a long time. By that statement, I’m relating to many things: It’s been a long time since Batman has taken place in present time, since Scott Snyder hasn’t written a Batman monthly, AND since we’ve had a standalone tale. I would like to focus on the third here for a second. One issue, one story. A beginning and an end, in 21 pages. Takes me back to my first experiences reading Batman, where each issue was one in and of itself. Don’t get me wrong, I love the 6-issue arcs, and so does DC (it’s how they make money). But it’s fun every once in a while to read a small tale.
Okay, moving on. I LOVED this issue. What surprises me more than that, since I figured this would just be a “filler” between “Zero Year” and “Futures End.” That’s not the case. Snyder is involved this month, but in story only. The actual issue is written by Gerry Duggan (Marvel’s Deadpool), with art by Matteo Scalera. I can’t wait for the Snyder/Capullo team to return, but couldn’t be happier with this month’s fill-ins. They have provided a creepy tale, with a horror atmosphere, yet we know from the get-go it’s a Batman story.
Somebody is killing people, and Batman believes his old friend Dr. Leslie Thompkins needs to know. Why? Because it’s happening in her neighborhood. The Dark Knight hits the cave…
He does some detective work…
and he gives us an update on what’s happening in Gotham…
I won’t give anything away (does he catch the killer?!!!) but I will say this is a good one. I’m excited for what’s coming in Batman’s world, as I have learned to never doubt Mr. Snyder. This issue should back that up.
Get your hands on this one!
Rating: 9.5/10